Retinoids for Rosacea (Tretinoin/Retinol/Adapalene)

By Dr Magnus Lynch
MA(Cantab) DPhil(Oxon) MRCS FRCP
Consultant Dermatologist & Dermatological Surgeon

Retinoids, such as tretinoin or adapalene, are good treatments for acne and also have anti-aging benefits. They can play an important role in rosacea where there is sebaceous hyperplasia - skin thickening and bumps that result from overgrowth of harmless glands within the skin.

However patients with rosacea often have sensitive skin and it can be a challenge to introduce retinoids which can cause rosacea to flare.

It takes time for skin to become used to topical retinoids and it should only be considered when rosacea is well controlled. It is essential that retinoids are introduced very slowly over time.

How to start gently

• Use the sandwich method: Apply a layer of water-based moisturiser such as Cetaphil, wait for it to dry, apply a tiny amount of the retinoid (can be as little as a quater of a pea for the entire face at first), and then apply another layer of moisturiser.
• Start infrequently: Begin by using it only once or twice a week, on non-consecutive nights.
• Increase slowly: Only increase the frequency after several weeks if your skin is showing no signs of irritation. This is similar to the method for introducing any new product.

Revessa Health

UK Online Specialist Care

The Online Acne & Rosacea Specialists

Video consultations with specially trained GPs and consultant dermatologists.

Founded by Dr Magnus Lynch, Consultant Dermatologist

GP consultation

£80

Consultant dermatologist

£220

Book Online →

Related articles

• A Simple Rosacea-Safe Skincare Routine
• Can I Exfoliate If I Have Rosacea?
• Best Ingredients (and Worst Irritants) for Rosacea

About Dr Magnus Lynch

I am a London-based Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon. I am highly experienced in skin cancer diagnosis, Mohs micrographic surgery, acne, rosacea, acne scarring and laser treatments. I studied at the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford, and completed my dermatology training and Mohs fellowship at the prestigious St John’s Institute of Dermatology. I graduated from medical school in 2003 and have worked exclusively in Dermatology since 2012.

I lead a research team at King’s College London investigating the molecular biology of skin cancer. In recent years I have been involved in Media Appearances, including the Channel 5 series 'Skin A&E', where I perform skin surgeries and treat various skin conditions. Filming for the next series has recently completed and the series will be released later in 2025.

My NHS practice is at Guy's Hospital. I consult with private patients at the London Bridge Hospital, OneWelbeck (near to Bond Street station) and on Harley Street. A new consultation is £250. Book A Consultation.